Gambro acquires CHF Solutions

Jan 20 2010

Gambro and CHF Solutions, Inc. (CHF) announced today that Gambro has acquired CHF, a medical device company that manufactures and distributes ultrafiltration devices to treat fluid overload.

CHF's leading product is the proprietary Aquadex FlexFlow system, a mechanical pump and filter to treat fluid overload. The Aquadex FlexFlow system uses a simplified approach to ultrafiltration for the removal of salt and water in patients with fluid overload. Compared to renal replacement devices used for ultrafiltration, the Aquadex FlexFlow system is smaller and more portable. The system consists of a console, disposable circuit and disposable venous catheter that can be placed in either a central or peripheral location. Ultrafiltration with the system can be provided to patients in multiple treatment venues.

"Gambro and CHF share a common dedication to pioneering life-saving therapies for patients," says Nick Mendez, President of the Gambro Acute Business Unit. "This acquisition will enable Gambro to accelerate the adoption of ultrafiltration for fluid overload, thereby expanding our product offerings and providing a broader spectrum of care to patients. CHF brings a proven therapy, superior clinical results and established relationships with physicians."

"We are pleased to become part of a company that shares our commitment to improving patient outcomes through innovative technologies," said David Springer, President and CEO of CHF Solutions, Inc. "We look forward, with Gambro's support, to continuing to expand access to ultrafiltration therapy for many more patients."

Fluid overload commonly accompanies many disorders, affecting both hospitalized patients and outpatients. In the advanced stages of many medical conditions, such as heart failure, liver failure and kidney disease, fluid overload is associated with significant morbidity and its management can be challenging. For example, fluid overload is the cause of the vast majority of heart failure hospitalizations, representing a significant burden to the U.S. hospital system. In addition, recent clinical studies have demonstrated fluid overload is an independent and significant contributor to mortality in hospitalized critically ill patients with sepsis.